The purpose for sparring, and the only reason the Miniature Schnauzer should be sparred, is to give the dogs a chance to show off for other dogs and in doing so, make themselves look really nice. This can work very well for dogs who have not wanted to hold themselves together in the individual exam, and can be used as an aid in determining placement of dogs of similar quality.

Both dogs and bitches may be expected to spar. Sometimes bitches or puppies may not spar effectively, but adult males should be willing to spar, to posture with other males. It is part of their temperament to think they are better than any other dog. Sparring does not mean trying to fight with the other dog(s) in the ring.

Technique

When sparring any terrier, never bring more than 3 out into the center of the ring. Instruct the handlers to let the dogs look at each other, but not get too close. If one of the dogs gets overaggressive, make sure the handlers separate the dogs. Be firm with the handlers and don’t let one take advantage of another. Never leave the dogs together for very long - time will work against you - the dogs will either get bored or will lose their cool and try to take on another dog.

What the judge gets out of sparring the dogs is a look at how the dog holds himself without help of the handler. Sometimes a gawky puppy can look wonderful when he tenses himself up to show off to another dog, or an inexperienced handler makes the dog look bad and this is a chance for the dog to do it on his own. If you do have an inexperienced handler in the ring, keep an extra eye on them during the sparring that they’re either not being taken advantage of (e.g. covered up by another dog) or that they’re not endangering their or others’ dogs by not having their dog under control.

The best time to spar is when the judge has gone over the dogs and is deciding between 2 or 3 for the top placements. Sparring two dogs of similar quality can help the judge decide which one should be placed over the other.

Sparring is a technique not to be used by judges inexperienced with the procedure. Please be cautious, and do it for the right reasons.

As a handler, remember it is not a contest to see who has the most aggressive dog. Some of the best dogs at sparring can do it several feet away from the closest dog. And it’s a beautiful sight.